Ancy Pei, Shenzhen Middle School

    As a gentle voice sings to the melody of “Safe and Sound,” the push has come to shove. How can we decide who the real enemy is in the latest “Hunger Games” film?

    Last November, “Catching Fire” finally screened in China. As the sequel of “Hunger Games,” logically it continues the intense story. Recalling the impact made by the first movie two years ago, the announcement about the sequel came out right after the first movie screened overseas. Obviously, people had high expectation for this new one when they were heading to movie theaters. The second movie is mainly about the changes after the 74th Hunger Games and a revolution that emerges during the 75th games. Katniss, the protagonist, has irritated the president by causing rebellions; she and Peeta are forced to attend the 75th games.

    When the movie came to its end, I felt quite disappointed. I thought it would knock my socks off, but it didn’t. As a big fan of the original novel, I had mixed feelings and I didn’t know whether to applaud for it or not. Some parts of the movie confused me, but some impressive scenes made it worth watching.

    What defects weakened the brilliance of the movie? Foremost, the development of the plot is so predictable that the audience can easily figure out what is going to happen. The producers put far too much focus on the two protagonists. No matter what happens, they are going to live. Besides, I think the movie talks too much about heroism. If we already know that Katniss is going to save the nation or the world right at the beginning, what is the difference from any other superhero movie?

    Despite all the unsatisfying parts of the movie, one scene deeply touched me. When the tributes are in the forest after the toxic fog attack, another danger draws near, which makes Katniss think that Peeta is killed. She is freaking out and losing control. At this moment, one tribute shouts to her, “Remember who your real enemy is!” Looking at the terrified emotion on Katniss’s face, I was startled. Have I ever lost sight of the real “enemy” when under too much pressure?

    Living in a world with intense competition, I sometimes get lost. It feels like everyone around me is my enemy just by living in the world. However, my real enemy is the devil in my heart. The only way to defeat it is to surpass myself.

    Some positive points about the movie included the cast, which is very strong and most of them did a great job. Compared with the first movie, the clothing is more splendid and the mockingjay becomes a unique symbol of courage, faith and hope. To sum it up, I would recommend it to my friends despite the flaws.